Full-Time
Updated on 8/1/2026
Industrial power tools and safety solutions
No salary listed
Brookfield, WI, USA
In Person
Travel of approximately 20% is required, including domestic and international travel.
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Milwaukee Tool makes professional-grade power and hand tools for trades, focusing on safety, productivity, and performance. It designs advanced, trade-specific solutions through global R&D in southeast Wisconsin, turning ideas into market products via fast design and partnerships with retailers. Its tools combine rugged builds, specialized features, and integrated ecosystems to help tradespeople work more efficiently and safely on site. Its goal is to empower tradespeople to excel on the job while returning home safely, by continuously delivering reliable tools and services tailored to professional users.
Company Size
5,001-10,000
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Brookfield, Illinois
Founded
1924
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Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Employee Assistance Program
401(k) Company Match
Education Assistance
Unlimited Paid Time Off
Paid Parental Leave
Employee Discounts
On-Site Wellness
Flexible Work Hours
Impact Driver vs Drill: key differences and which one you need in 2026. * By Arjun Mehta * Published July 28, 2026 * 4 mins read Key Takeaway: Drills offer precision and clutch control for clean holes and delicate screws, while impact drivers deliver 2-3x more torque for structural fastening without wrist fatigue. Serious DIYers and professionals should own both tools for maximum versatility. Table of contents. 1. Understanding the basics: drill vs impact driver. Drills and impact drivers look similar and both turn fasteners, which creates endless confusion for first-time buyers. But they work differently under the hood, and each excels at different tasks. The drill/driver uses a chuck that accepts all round-shank bits and delivers smooth, controllable rotation. Its adjustable clutch prevents over-driving screws - a critical feature for finish work and delicate materials. An impact driver uses a 1/4" hex collet (not a chuck) and delivers torque through rapid concussive rotational blows - typically 3,000-4,000 impacts per minute. When it senses resistance, the impact mechanism kicks in, multiplying torque dramatically without transferring the reaction force to your wrist. This is why professionals can drive 3-inch deck screws all day without fatigue. The key specification difference is torque: most cordless drills top out around 600-750 in-lbs of torque, while even mid-range impact drivers deliver 1,500-2,300 in-lbs. That's not a small gap - the impact driver can easily drive fasteners that would stall or damage a standard drill. 2. When to use each tool. Use a drill when: Drilling holes in wood, metal, or plastic (the chuck accepts all round-shank bits); boring large holes with hole saws or spade bits; driving short screws into cabinets or drywall where clutch control matters; any delicate work involving electronics, thin wood, or furniture assembly where precise depth control is essential. Use an impact driver when: Driving 3-inch or longer deck screws into dimensional lumber; installing lag bolts and structural fasteners; removing stuck or rusted fasteners that a drill would just strip; repetitive bulk fastening where speed is important; working in tight spaces where the impact driver's shorter length helps. 3. Top models compared: 2026. Consumer Reports and Pro Tool Reviews consistently rate the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2953-20 as the best professional impact driver (4.8/5, 2,000 in-lbs torque), with the DeWalt DCF887B 20V MAX XR as runner-up (4.7/5, 1,825 in-lbs). For drills, the DeWalt DCD791 20V MAX Brushless Drill/Driver scores 4.7/5. For budget-conscious buyers, the Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04 impact driver (4.3/5, 2,300 in-lbs torque) offers exceptional value while challenging pro-level brands on performance. 4. Which one should you buy? Homeowners doing general maintenance and furniture assembly should start with a drill/driver. The clutch control saves you from stripping screws and over-driving into drywall - the two most common frustrations for new tool owners. DIYers tackling outdoor projects like fencing and decking should choose an impact driver first. The combination of raw torque and zero wrist fatigue makes structural fastening genuinely enjoyable. Professionals should own both tools and use them as a system - one for pilot holes and one for fasteners. 5. Best combo kits 2026. The DeWalt DCK240C2 and DCK277D2 combo kits (both rated 8.7-8.8/10) include a drill and impact driver with two batteries, charger, and bag. These typically save $60-80 compared to buying the tools separately, making them the smartest entry point for anyone building their toolkit. Frequently asked questions. Can I use drill bits in an impact driver? Not effectively. Impact drivers use a 1/4" hex collet that only accepts hex-shank bits. The concussive action also makes slightly out-of-round holes and can snap smaller bits in metal. Will an impact driver damage screws? Yes, in soft materials. Without a clutch, the tool can drive a screw too deep before you react. Use speed modes or practice trigger control for finish work. Is a brushless motor worth paying extra for? Absolutely. Brushless motors deliver 25-50% longer runtime, more torque, and significantly longer tool life compared to brushed designs. Every recommendation in this article is brushless. Related reading. Sources. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, Justlast earn from qualifying purchases. Impact Driver vs Drill - Complete comparison guide for 2026
DOJ sues Milwaukee over mask ban for federal agents. The Trump administration sued Milwaukee on Thursday over the city's ban on law enforcement wearing face coverings while on duty. The Justice Department (DOJ) argued the measure is unconstitutional when used against federal agents, pointing to the administration's recent wins in similar legal challenges it launched against California, Virginia and Philadelphia. "This Court should join the growing number of others that are putting an end to this type of blatant unconstitutional regulation of the Federal Government," the new lawsuit reads. This spring, Milwaukee joined a growing number of localities that have passed restrictions on how law enforcement, including federal agents, can operate. It's part of pushback by local Democratic officials against President Trump's sweeping immigration crackdown. The city's ordinance bans law enforcement officers from wearing a face covering "while interacting with the public in the performance of the officer's duties." Agents must also visibly display a badge or alternatively provide their affiliation and information verbally upon request.
Milwaukee(R) delivers efficiency in every press connection with new ONE-KEY(TM) compatible Press Tool. Milwaukee Tool enhances their press system with the introduction of the next generation M12(TM) FORCE LOGIC(TM) Press Tool w/ ONE KEY(TM). Milwaukee Tool enhances their press system with the introduction of the next-generation M12(TM) FORCE LOGIC(TM) Press Tool w/ ONE-KEY(TM), delivering confidence in every cycle for plumbers, mechanical contractors, and HVAC technicians. This press tool is engineered to complete fast, reliable connections across copper, PEX, black iron, stainless steel, and ACR from 1/4" to 1-[1/2]" varying by material. When combined with Milwaukee's lineup of press rings and jaws, professionals unlock unmatched access and efficiency The M12(TM) FORCE LOGIC(TM) Press Tool w/ ONE-KEY(TM) is the smallest, most intelligent press tool in its class, maintaining the best access and unlocking tool management. Built for better access, the one-handed in-line design allows professionals to work easily in tight spaces or confined environments. This in-line design paired with Milwaukee's pivoting rings delivers professional users the best access for navigating tight spaces and around pipe. Built for professional demands, the M12(TM) FORCE LOGIC(TM) Press Tool w/ ONE-KEY(TM) ensures a full press every cycle with Auto-Cycle technology and features a visual indicator light that confirms completion or signals when calibration is needed. This solution is ONE-KEY(TM) enabled for tracking, managing, and reporting. Integrated performance monitoring provides assurance in reliable connections so users can generate time-stamped data logs for faster, more efficient documentation and reporting. ONE-KEY(TM) offers the industry's largest tracking network and tool lock out to help protect users' investments. The new M12(TM) FORCE LOGIC(TM) Press Tool Kit w/ ONE-KEY(TM) joins the M12(TM) Cordless System, the largest sub-compact system on the market, focused on delivering industry-leading durability and the power to complete applications in the tightest spaces. Currently, the M12(TM) System is made up of more than 150 solutions. Jul 20, 2026
Milwaukee Tool releases cordless Hammer Chisel. The Striker Hammer Chisel targets suspension teardowns, seized-component removal and other similar work. Published: Jul 18, 2026 Milwaukee Tool introduced the M18 Fuel Striker Hammer Chisel, a cordless tool that the company says is designed to replace long-barrel air hammers in shops. The Striker Hammer Chisel targets suspension teardowns, seized-component removal and other similar work. "This level of performance allows technicians to confidently move away from air tools without sacrificing productivity," said Ryan Mack, group manager of product marketing at Milwaukee Tool. "By delivering long-barrel pneumatic striking force in a cordless solution, we focused on eliminating the frustrations of hoses while maintaining the power, consistency, and control technicians rely on every day in the shop." Striker Hammer Chisel performance and design. Milwaukee Tool powers the Striker Hammer Chisel with a Powerstate brushless motor. The tool generates seven joules of striking force. The company says it designed the tool to maintain consistent impact energy during aggressive material removal. A twist-style chuck supports quick bit changes and accepts .401-inch round shank accessories. Milwaukee Tool says the setup supports ball joint removal, rusted fastener removal, pressed-in part removal and heavy component removal. The company says the tool performs these tasks at speeds similar to pneumatic alternatives. Control features and user adjustments. A variable speed trigger and three selectable modes allow users to adjust impact settings for specific applications. A ramp-up mode increases impact speed from 0 to 3,000 blows per minute when users fully engage the trigger. Milwaukee Tool says the feature helps reduce slips and minimize potential damage during startup. Targeted LED lighting improves visibility in confined work areas. Redlink Plus intelligence is designed to protect the tool and battery during high-demand applications. Bit Set and Protective Boot. Milwaukee Tool also introduced a five-piece Hammer Chisel Bit Set and the M18 Fuel Striker Hammer Chisel Protective Boot. The five steel bits feature a universal .401-inch round shank. The bits are compatible with the Striker Hammer Chisel and pneumatic tools. Milwaukee Tool says it designed the set for common service and teardown applications. The protective boot helps protect the tool and nearby surfaces during operation. Milwaukee says it constructed the boot from lightweight, durable rubber designed to withstand corrosive materials found in transportation maintenance, fleet service and industrial environments. The Striker Hammer Chisel is fully compatible with the M18 system, which Milwaukee Tool says includes more than 300 tools.
PHCC, Milwaukee Tool recommit to workforce development. Trades group, manufacturer renew commitment to building next generation of skilled trades professionals. July 17, 2026 Key highlights. * Milwaukee Tool has increased its support for PHCC, now holding Strategic Partner status, reflecting a shared commitment to workforce development; * The partnership includes a national Workforce Advocacy Video Initiative featuring successful trades professionals like Charlie Goede to inspire youth; * Milwaukee Tools invests over $10 million annually in education and workforce initiatives, supporting hundreds of apprentices and donating equipment to trade schools; * The companies plan to invest $200 million by 2030 to expand access to training and strengthen industry pipelines. Falls Church, VA, July 13, 2026 - PHCC - National Association and Milwaukee Tool are expanding their partnership through a major investment in workforce-development initiatives designed to attract, train and retain the next generation of plumbing and HVAC professionals. As part of this strengthened collaboration, Milwaukee Tool has elevated its support of PHCC to Strategic Partner status, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening the skilled trades workforce and ensuring the industry has the talent, training and resources needed to meet future demand. The expanded partnership includes Milwaukee Tool's exclusive sponsorship of the PHCC Educational Foundation's Workforce Advocacy Video Initiative, a national campaign designed to inspire future skilled trades professionals by highlighting rewarding career opportunities in the plumbing industry. The initiative will feature Charlie Goede, the 2026 U.S. WorldSkills plumbing competitor and former PHCC National Plumbing Apprentice Champion, whose journey from apprentice to international competitor demonstrates the opportunities and career pathways available through the skilled trades. "Workforce development remains one of the most critical priorities facing our industry," said Cindy Sheridan, chief executive officer of PHCC - National Association. "Milwaukee Tool has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to advancing the skilled trades through education, training and industry partnerships. Their expanded investment will help us to continue creating opportunities for the next generation of plumbing and HVAC professionals in order to strengthen the future of our industry." Built on deep relationships with the trades, Milwaukee Tool works directly with professionals to develop solutions that improve safety, productivity and jobsite performance. That same user-driven approach extends beyond product innovation through long-term investments in workforce development, education and industry partnerships that help prepare the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Milwaukee Tool invests more than $10 million annually in hands-on education and workforce development initiatives. In 2025 alone, the company supported more than 600 apprentice graduations and donated more than $4.5 million in professional-grade equipment to trade schools across the United States. These efforts build on Milwaukee Tool's recently announced commitment to invest $200 million by 2030 in skilled trades workforce development initiatives, expanding access to training, strengthening workforce pipelines and supporting the long-term growth of the industry. "Milwaukee Tool's success has always been rooted in the success of the skilled trades," said Scott Teson, Senior Vice President of Skilled Trades at Milwaukee Tool. "As we continue investing in the future of the industry, we're proud to deepen our partnership with PHCC and support the programs, training and workforce development initiatives that help attract and prepare the next generation of plumbing and HVAC professionals." The Workforce Advocacy Video Initiative will be promoted through PHCC and PHCC Educational Foundation communication channels and will provide resources that contractors, educators and industry stakeholders can use to support recruitment and workforce-development efforts nationwide. About PHCC The PHCC - National Association, formed in 1883, provides legislative advocacy, education, and training to approximately 3,500 plumbing and HVACR businesses and 65,000 technicians. Members of PHCC have access to a wide variety of services designed to increase their professionalism, grow their business, and improve profitability. For more information about PHCC, visit phccweb.org. About Milwaukee Tool For over 100 years, Milwaukee Tool has led the industry with innovative solutions that redefine performance, productivity, and safety for professional trades. Fueled by an unwavering commitment to its users, Milwaukee Tool pioneers breakthrough technologies, products, and services that empower tradespeople to excel in their work and return home safely each day. Milwaukee is dedicated to delivering a steady stream of advanced, trade-specific solutions from its global research, design and development facilities located across southeast Wisconsin. Milwaukee(R) is a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI), a world leader in cordless technology. For more information about Milwaukee Tool, visit www.milwaukeetool.com. HPAC July quiz. Happy birthday, america. Enjoy its celebratory mix of engineering and U.S. history. One lucky quiz taker will win $25. TAKE THE QUIZ